From claims to sales: how Estiko’s new logos drive sustainability

Fully recyclable packaging refers to packaging that can be entirely collected, processed, and reused repeatedly in designated recycling streams. Such packaging is made using a single type of plastic, such as PP or PE, allowing consumers to easily sort and recycle it without confusion. By using the logo, you can confirm that every component of the packaging – whether it is the film or spout on a doybag packaging – is made entirely from the same material, keeping them in circulation while also complying with the new regulations.

The renewable content logo indicated that packaging materials are derived from renewable resources, such as sugarcane, tall oil from the wood industry, or sustainably managed forests. These materials are replenished naturally over time, reducing the reliance on finite resources. By using this logo, you can assure your customers that the packaging used is part of a sustainable cycle, verified by trusted third parties such as ISCC PLUS and FSC®. The logo can also be added to packaging using I’m Green materials.

The recycled content logo signifies that the packaging materials are made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials. This means that the packaging used by the end consumer has been redirected back into circulation and undergone either chemical or mechanical recycling processes. As a result, PCR packaging has a lower carbon footprint than packaging made from virgin materials, supporting a circular economy.

To incorporate such materials into your packaging, we collaborate with ISCC to ensure that the use of recycled materials is traceable, transparent, and meets the highest quality and sustainability standards.

For products bearing the carbon-neutral logo, the CO₂ emissions generated during packaging production are reduced as much as possible, and those that cannot be eliminated are offset. The process follows two simple steps. First, we try to optimise the packaging as much as possible by switching to certified ISCC materials, reducing the thickness of the packaging, and opting for responsible printing options. Once the minimum has been reached, the remainder will be neutralised by CO₂ credit. This ensures only the least unavoidable emissions will be offset.

The assessment follows a cradle-to-gate approach, considering emissions from raw material sourcing to product manufacturing. Upon product completion, the packaging supplier provides a corresponding certificate, verifying the carbon neutrality of that specific batch.

Reduced footprint packaging highlights that the packaging has been designed to minimise carbon emissions throughout its lifecycle, contributing to a more circular economy. The logo can be applied to packaging that utilises either certified bio-based raw materials or recycled materials, PCR content, or simply using less material by downgauging.

The percentage of the carbon footprint reduction can be adjusted according to the product’s needs and specifications. Proposals and necessary calculations are made collaboratively between the packaging supplier and the client.